Three-game suspension for Lukas Bär

Lukas Bär (#89) of HC TIWAG Innsbruck - Die Haie, time 34:52 was involved in an incident deemed as Cross-Checking (IIHF Rule 59). The video evidence was sent to the win2day ICE Hockey League PSC, which determined the incident to be worthy of supplementary discipline - Category 2 - 'Reckless'.

Friday night in Innsbruck, Innsbruck forward #89 Lukas Bär was assessed a 5-minute major penalty plus game-misconduct for cross-checking Vienna D'Man Seamus Donahue. As the video shows, at the same time Bär is releasing the puck, Donahue delivers a light tap with his stick on Bär, followed immediately by Bär using his stick in a manner to trip Donahue to the ice. Once Donahue is on the ice and Bär is in control of this sequence, he makes a decision to deliver a reckless cross check to a player lying vulnerable on the ice, with a forceful blow to the head area of Donahue. This is Cross-Checking.

It is important to note cross checking is a common infraction that is often adequately penalized by the on-ice officials. However, in this case multiple factors combine to elevate this play to the level where supplementary discipline is required. Firstly, this is not a hockey play. Secondly this is a incident where multiple strikes with a stick are made with a purpose, directly to the head area of an opponent. Lastly, this is not a case where 2 players are jousting and actually aware of a stick battle. It is a case of a player taking advantage of a vulnerable player, through the use of a stick, to a player that has no possible way to protect himself.

The ICE Hockey League Department of Player Safety has suspended Lukas Bär for 3 games and fined 750.00 euros.

To summarize:

• This is Cross-Checking
• Directed at head area of an opponent
• Not a repeat offender

Next game Lukas Bär (#89) of HC TIWAG Innsbruck - Die Haie is allowed to play:
03.01.2024 HC TIWAG Innsbruck - Die Haie vs. EC IDM Wärmepumpen VSV

DOPS provided the following video: